Collapsible furniture jointing system

ABSTRACT

Methods for constructing and apparatus for furniture. In some embodiments, the furniture includes a plurality of subassemblies, with each component within the subassembly being interlocked with adjacent components. Preferably, there is additional interlocking between adjacent subassemblies. Preferably, the furniture is easily and simply constructed without the use of fasteners or tools. Prior to assembly, the components are generally planar, which facilitates storage of the disassembled furniture. In some embodiments, each of the components within a subassembly are substantially identical to the other components, thus minimizing fabrication costs.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 61/365,113, filed Jul. 16, 2010, entitledCOLLAPSIBLE FURNITURE JOINTING SYSTEM, incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention pertains to furniture and, in particular tomethods of joining furniture components in a manner not requiringfasteners.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention pertains to a furniture assembly.Some embodiments further include a first plurality of separable framepieces, each said piece of said first plurality being interlockable witheach adjacent said piece of said first plurality. Yet other embodimentsinclude a second plurality of separable frame pieces, each said piece ofsaid second plurality being interlockable with each adjacent said pieceof said second plurality. Still other embodiments include a plurality ofseparable panels, each said panel being interlockable with each adjacentsaid panel, each panel having a top and a bottom; and wherein the bottomof each said panel is interlockable with a corresponding different oneof said first plurality of frame pieces, and the top of each said panelis interlockable with a corresponding different one of said secondplurality of frame pieces.

Another aspect of the present invention pertains to a furnitureassembly. Some embodiments further include a first plurality ofseparable frame pieces, each said piece having two ends, one end of eachsaid piece having a first frame interlocking pattern including at leastone laterally directed finger and at least one recess, and the other endof each said piece having a second pattern that is complementary inshape to the first interlocking pattern, each said piece of said firstplurality being interlockable with each adjacent said piece of saidfirst plurality, each said frame piece having a top defining at leastone slot and a bottom defining at least one slot. Yet other embodimentsinclude a plurality of separable panels, each said panel having twoends, one end of each said panel having a third interlocking pattern,the third interlocking pattern of one said panel being interlockablewith the third interlocking pattern of the adjacent said panel andwherein the bottom slot of each said frame piece is interlockable withthe third interlocking pattern of a corresponding said panel, and thetop slot of each said frame piece is interlockable with a thirdinterlocking pattern of a different corresponding said panel.

Yet another aspect of the present invention pertains to a furnitureassembly. Some embodiments include a first plurality of separable framepieces, each said piece of said first plurality being laterally andslidingly interlockable with each adjacent said piece of said firstplurality to form a first closed shape, each said frame piece having atop. Other embodiments include a second plurality of separable panels,each said panel of said second plurality being vertically and slidinglyinterlockable with each adjacent said panel of said second plurality toform a second closed shape, each said panel having a bottom. Stillfurther embodiments include wherein the bottom of each said secondplurality of panels is vertically and interferingly interlockable withthe top of a corresponding different one of said first plurality offrame pieces, and the first closed shape and the second closed shapehave substantially the same planform.

It will be appreciated that the various apparatus and methods describedin this summary section, as well as elsewhere in this application, canbe expressed as a large number of different combinations andsubcombinations. All such useful, novel, and inventive combinations andsubcombinations are contemplated herein, it being recognized that theexplicit expression of each of these combinations is unnecessary.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some of the figures shown herein may include dimensions. Further, someof the figures shown herein may have been created from scaled drawingsor from photographs that are scalable. It is understood that suchdimensions, or the relative scaling within a figure, are by way ofexample, and not to be construed as limiting.

FIG. 1 a is a side perspective view of a floor lamp according to oneembodiment of the present invention, with the lighting illuminated.

FIG. 1 b is a side perspective view of the floor lamp of FIG. 1 a, withthe lighting turned off.

FIG. 1 c is a close-up perspective view of a portion of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 b.

FIG. 2 a is a side perspective view of a floor lamp according to anotherembodiment of the present invention with the lighting illuminated.

FIG. 2 b is a close-up perspective view of a portion of the apparatus ofFIG. 2 a.

FIG. 3 is a side and top perspective view of a small side panelaccording to one embodiment of the present invention and marked tocorrelate to the dimensions of Table 1.

FIG. 4 a is a top and side perspective view of a frame part according toone embodiment of the present invention and marked to correlate to thedimensions of Table 2.

FIG. 4 b is a top and side perspective view of a frame part according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a top and side perspective view of a leg according to oneembodiment of the present invention and marked to correlate to thedimensions of Table 3.

FIG. 6 is a top and side perspective view of a large side panelaccording to one embodiment of the present invention and marked tocorrelate to the dimensions of Table 4.

FIG. 7 is a top and side perspective view of a top detail pieceaccording to one embodiment of the present invention and marked tocorrelate to the dimensions of Table 5.

FIG. 8 is a top and side perspective view of a shelf according to oneembodiment of the present invention and marked to correlate to thedimensions of Table 6.

FIG. 9 a is a top and side perspective view depicting the interlockingof a frame subassembly with a leg subassembly, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 b depicts the completed interlocking of FIG. 9 a and the additionof a side panel.

FIG. 9 c is a top perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 9 b showingthe interlocking of a plurality of side panels.

FIG. 9 d is a top perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 9 b showingthe interlocking of a plurality of side panels.

FIG. 9 e depicts the interlocking of a second frame subassembly with thepartial assembly of FIG. 9 d.

FIG. 10 is a close-up of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 11 is a close-up of a lower portion of FIG. 1 b.

FIG. 12 is a partial side and top perspective hand sketch of a framepiece according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a line drawing of the apparatus of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a top and side perspective view of a side panel according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a side and top perspective photographic image of furnitureaccording to one another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a close-up of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a side and top perspective photographic image of a partialassembly of the apparatus of FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 is a side and top perspective photographic image of a portion ofthe apparatus of FIG. 17.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of theinvention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated inthe drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. Itwill nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of theinvention is thereby intended, such alterations and furthermodifications in the illustrated device, and such further applicationsof the principles of the invention as illustrated therein beingcontemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to whichthe invention relates. At least one embodiment of the present inventionwill be described and shown, and this application may show and/ordescribe other embodiments of the present invention. It is understoodthat any reference to “the invention” is a reference to an embodiment ofa family of inventions, with no single embodiment including anapparatus, process, or composition that should be included in allembodiments, unless otherwise stated. Further, although there may bediscussion with regards to “advantages” provided by some embodiments ofthe present invention, it is understood that yet other embodiments maynot include those same advantages, or may include yet differentadvantages. Any advantages described herein are not to be construed aslimiting to any of the claims.

The use of an N-series prefix for an element number (NXX.XX) refers toan element that is the same as the non-prefixed element (XX.XX), exceptas shown and described thereafter. As an example, an element 1020.1would be the same as element 20.1, except for those different featuresof element 1020.1 shown and described. Further, common elements andcommon features of related elements are drawn in the same manner indifferent figures, and/or use the same symbology in different figures.As such, it is not necessary to describe the features of 1020.1 and 20.1that are the same, since these common features are apparent to a personof ordinary skill in the related field of technology. This descriptionconvention also applies to the use of prime (′) and double prime (″)suffixed element numbers. Therefore, it is not necessary to describe thefeatures of 20.1, 20.1′ and 20.1″ that are the same, since these commonfeatures are apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the related fieldof technology.

Although various specific quantities (spatial dimensions, temperatures,pressures, times, force, resistance, current, voltage, concentrations,wavelengths, frequencies, heat transfer coefficients, dimensionlessparameters, etc.) may be stated herein, such specific quantities arepresented as examples only, and further, unless otherwise noted, areapproximate values, and should be considered as if the word “about”prefaced each quantity. Further, with discussion pertaining to aspecific composition of matter, that description is by example only, anddoes not limit the applicability of other species of that composition,nor does it limit the applicability of other compositions unrelated tothe cited composition.

One embodiment of the present invention pertains to floor lamps designedto be easily mass produced and shipped. Each piece of the lamp isdesigned around a jointing system that requires minimal or no tools orfasteners for assembly and breakdown. The use of flat materials duringconstruction facilitates the fitting of the unassembled lamp into asmall box. These characteristics also allow the structure to be readilycollapsed and reassembled, aiding in minimal transportationrequirements. In addition to being easily mass produced and shipped, theconstruction of these lamps leaves only a small amount of wastedmaterials from the panel stock. Preferably, each piece has the samerectangular shape and can be nested within centimeters of one anotherbefore being cut out on a CNC router. This reduction in wasted materialsis helpful for eliminating some of the manufacturing costs. Althoughwhat will be shown and described is an embodiment pertaining to a floorlamp, it is understood that the present invention is not so constrainedand contemplates the assembly of knock down furniture adaptable for avariety of uses.

In some embodiments pertaining to floor lamps, the assembly includespanels that are adapted and configured to include regions that aretranslucent and other regions that are substantially not translucent.These two regions are designed to be aesthetically pleasing whenbacklit. For example, in some embodiments the lamp assembly has a closedcross sectional shape, with a source of light in the interior of theshape. In some embodiments, the translucent portions are created byremoving material from a planar piece of wood, such that the translucentsection of panel is sufficiently thin to allow light to pass through.However, yet other embodiments of the present invention are not soconstrained, and contemplate other methods of providing aestheticallypleasing patterns when illuminated by light, including for example, thecomplete removal of some sections of a panel that are subsequentlycovered with a translucent material such as a plastic sheet or cloth.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show various views of a floor lamp 20′ and 20 according totwo embodiments of the present invention. Preferably, each lamp 20 is ofsimilar construction, but it can be seen that the panels of FIG. 1include a different aesthetic appearance than the panels shown in FIG.2. Referring to FIG. 1 b, it can be seen that a panel 30′ includes anaesthetically chosen arrangement of translucent areas 38′ generallybounded by one or more non-translucent regions 39′. Likewise, a panel60′ includes one or more translucent regions 68′ bounded by one or morenontranslucent regions 69′. In some embodiments, the nontranslucentregions 69′ are created so as to visually interconnect with adjacentnontranslucent regions 39′, so as to create an overall flowing patternfrom the top to the bottom of lamp 20′.

Referring to FIG. 2 b, it can be seen that any type of design can beintegrated into the panels 30 and 60. In one particular embodiment, apanel 30 includes a translucent region 68 that evokes images of a birdin a tree. It can be seen that the less translucent region 69 can bevariable in their transmission of light, such that there is anintermediate translucent region (represented by the five petal flowers).

In addition, as can be seen and will be discussed with regard to FIG.11, the frame pieces 40′ have a different joint configuration than framepieces 40. Reference will not be made to various aspects of floor lamp20′, it being appreciated that the same comments, except with regards toaesthetic features and some aspects of the joining of frame pieces, alsoapply to floor lamp 20′.

Floor lamp 20 is constructed of a plurality of subassemblies stacked andinterlocked one into another. Referring to FIG. 2 a, it can be seen thatfloor lamp 20 is an alternating arrangement of panel subassemblies(either large panel subassemblies 26 or small panel subassemblies 23)and frame subassemblies 24. Preferably, each subassembly comprises aplurality of interlocking separate components. In some embodiments, eachof the adjacent subassemblies interlock with each other.

Although an alternating pattern of small/large/small/large panelsubassemblies 23, 26, 23, 26, respectively, (with frame subassemblies 24therebetween) are shown, it is appreciated that other arrangements ofside panel assemblies are contemplated (for example, floor lampsconstructed only of alternating arrangements of small panels and framepieces, or only of large panels and frame pieces). Further, theinvention is not constrained to a floor lamp comprising four verticalsections of side panel subassemblies, and other configurations arecontemplated (for instance, floor lamps comprised of 1, 2, or 3 sidepanel subassemblies). The top of floor lamp 20 includes an interlockingsubassembly 27 of top pieces 70. Further, although what has been shownand described is a floor lamp, it is also understood that shorterversions could include a top piece subassembly adapted and configuredfor use as a tabletop.

The decorative panels 30, legs 50, and top detail piece 70 are createdand assembled to each other in substantially the same way. These piecespreferably use a simple slit, sliding joint to create a square. Groovesare located at the corners of these pieces to hold to frame sections andcreating an appealing intersection or externally and outwardly facingcorner 35 between the parts (as best seen in FIG. 2 b). In addition,this outwardly facing corner 35 is created by substantial overlapping ofadjacent side panels, which also provides stiffness and stability tolamp 20.

In one embodiment of the present invention components such as small sidepanels 30, legs 50, large side panels 60 and top pieces 70 are designedto be substantially symmetrical about their vertical centerlines (forexample, such as centerline 31 shown in FIG. 3). Right and left sides ofcomponents 30, 50, 60, and 70 have features on one side that aresubstantially mirror images of features on the other side. Preferably,these pieces each include an open slit on each side that is about onehalf of the vertical height of the piece. These slits (i.e., 32, 52, 62,and 72 in their respective components) are adapted and configured toreceive within them a corresponding slit of an adjoining component ofthe same type.

When components are arranged in a subassembly (such as the interlockingof four frame pieces into a frame subassembly 24), the subassemblypreferably projects a closed planform. In furniture 20 and 20′, theclosed planform is substantially square, and defines an interior.However, yet other embodiments of the present invention are not soconstrained. For example, the present invention contemplatessubassemblies of three, five, and six components, which would thereforedefine planforms that are triangular, pentagonal, or hexagonal,respectively. Those of ordinary skill will appreciate that in suchnon-rectangular embodiments the interlocking joints preferably haveangled interlocking surfaces corresponding to the planform shape.

FIG. 3 shows a small side panel 30 according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. Side panel 30 is generally symmetric about acenterline 31. Preferably, panel 30 is generally planar and fabricatedfrom a single piece of material, such as wood. Preferably, the overalloutside shape is rectangular, with a height of G and a length of A.

Each side panel 30 includes interlocking features at the two edges thatare mirror images of each other. A slot 32 extends from the bottom ofthe panel 30 vertically for a height of about one-half of the overallheight G of the panel. Although what has been shown and described areinterlocking features that are mirror images of each other, otherembodiments are not so constrained and contemplate interlocking featuresthat are not mirror images of each other.

In some embodiments, the interlocking edge pattern includes a pair ofrecesses 36 (or notches) formed at the top and bottom of edge 33. Eachrecess 36 is adapted and configured to be received within acorresponding slot of a frame piece 40, as will be described later.

Slot 32 and edge 33 co-act to form a projection 34 therebetween. Aportion of this projection 34 proximate to recess 36 fits behind anadjacent frame piece 40, and further below the corresponding slot of theframe piece. In some embodiments, lateral edges 33 of panel 30 extendoutwardly from slots 32 a sufficient amount to form external corners 35when adjacent panels 30 are interlocked together. The width ofprojection 34 can create external, outwardly facing corners 35 that areboth strong and aesthetically pleasing.

FIG. 4 a shows a frame piece 40 according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. Side frame piece 40 is generally symmetric about acenterline 41. Preferably, frame piece 40 is generally planar andfabricated from a single piece of material, such as wood. Preferably,the overall outside shape is rectangular, with a height of G and alength of A.

Each frame piece 40 includes interlocking features at the two edges thatare inverted mirror images of each other. Preferably, the interlockingfeatures at one edge have a shape that is complementary to the shape ofthe interlocking features at the other edge. Each frame piece 40includes two pair of slots 42 that are adapted and configured tointerlock with adjacent panels. Top 40.1 of frame piece 40 includesright and left vertically oriented slots 42. Bottom 40.2 of frame piece40 includes right and left vertically oriented slots 42.

Each edge includes a pair of laterally projecting fingers 44, and a pairof recesses 46. On the left side of FIG. 4 a it can be seen that arecess 46 is adjacent to top left slot 42. On the right side, a finger44 is adjacent to the top right slot 42. Although what has been shownand described is a pair of fingers alternating with a pair of recesses,this is by way of example only, yet other embodiments of the presentinvention contemplating different numbers and arrangements of fingersand recesses. The interlocking ends of a frame piece 40 are adapted andconfigured such that a male member (such as rectangular projection 44)of one framed piece is received within a female portion (recess 46) ofan adjacent frame piece 40 within a frame assembly 24. Although what hasbeen shown and described are interlocking features that are mirrorimages of each other, other embodiments are not self constrained andcontemplate interlocking features that are not mirror images of eachother.

FIG. 4 b shows a frame piece 40′ according to another embodiment of thepresent invention. A plurality of frame pieces 40′ are interlocked intoa generally rectangular planform to create a frame subassembly 24′, (asbest seen in FIGS. 1C and 11). Side frame piece 40′ is generallysymmetric about a centerline 41′. Preferably, frame piece 40′ isgenerally planar and fabricated from a single piece of material, such aswood. Preferably, the overall outside shape is rectangular, with aheight of G and a length of A.

Each side frame piece 40′ includes interlocking features at the twoedges that are complementary in shape to each other. The interlockingshape at the right end of frame 40 (referring to FIG. 4B) includes acentrally located recess 46.1′ located between adjacentlaterally-extending fingers 44.1′. The opposite end of frame piece 40′includes a centrally located finger 44.2′ located between a pair ofrecesses 46.2′. It can be seen that projection (male feature) 44.2′ isreceived within recess (female feature) 46.1′. Likewise, laterallyextending the fingers 44.1′ are received within recesses 46.2′ of anadjacent frame piece, when a frame subassembly 24′ is constructed.Although what has been shown and described are interlocking featuresthat are mirror images of each other, other embodiments are not selfconstrained and contemplate interlocking features that are not mirrorimages of each other.

FIG. 5 shows a small leg piece 50 according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. Leg piece 50 is generally symmetric about acenterline 51. Preferably, leg piece 50 is generally planar andfabricated from a single piece of material, such as wood. Preferably,the overall outside shape is rectangular, with a height of D and alength of A.

Each leg piece 50 includes interlocking features at the two edges thatare mirror images of each other. A slot 52 extends from the bottom ofthe leg piece 50 vertically for a height of about one-half of theoverall height G of the leg piece. Although what has been shown anddescribed are interlocking features that are mirror images of eachother, other embodiments are not self constrained and contemplateinterlocking features that are not mirror images of each other.

In some embodiments, the interlocking edge pattern includes a pair ofrecesses 56 (or notches) formed at the top and bottom of edge 53. Eachrecess 56 is adapted and configured to be received within acorresponding slot of a frame piece 40, as will be described later.

Slot 52 and edge 53 co-act to form a projection 54 therebetween. Aportion of this projection 54 proximate to recess 56 fits behind anadjacent frame piece 40, and further below the corresponding slot of theframe piece. In some embodiments, lateral edges 53 of leg piece 50extend outwardly from slots 52 a sufficient amount to form externalcorners 55 when adjacent leg pieces 50 are interlocked together. Thewidth of projection 54 can create external, outwardly facing corners 55that are both strong and aesthetically pleasing. It is to be noted thatin some embodiments leg subassembly 25 includes two leg panels 50 havingupwardly oriented slots 52, and two other leg panels that includedownwardly extending slots (i.e., slots that extend from about midwaydown to the foot that contacts the floor.

FIG. 6 shows a small side panel 60 according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. Side panel 60 is generally symmetric about acenterline 61. Preferably, panel 60 is generally planar and fabricatedfrom a single piece of material, such as wood. Preferably, the overalloutside shape is rectangular, with a height of G and a length of A.

Each side panel 60 includes interlocking features at the two edges thatare mirror images of each other. A slot 62 extends from the bottom ofthe panel 60 vertically for a height of about one-half of the overallheight G of the panel. Although what has been shown and described areinterlocking features that are mirror images of each other, otherembodiments are not self constrained and contemplate interlockingfeatures that are not mirror images of each other.

In some embodiments, the interlocking edge pattern includes a pair ofrecesses 66 (or notches) formed at the top and bottom of edge 63. Eachrecess 66 is adapted and configured to be received within acorresponding slot of a frame piece 40, as will be described later.

Slot 62 and edge 63 co-act to form a projection 64 therebetween. Aportion of this projection 64 proximate to recess 66 fits behind anadjacent frame piece 40, and further below the corresponding slot of theframe piece. In some embodiments, lateral edges 63 of panel 60 extendoutwardly from slots 62 a sufficient amount to form external corners 65when adjacent panels 60 are interlocked together. The width ofprojection 64 can create external, outwardly facing corners 65 that areboth strong and aesthetically pleasing.

FIG. 7 shows a small top piece 70 according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. Top piece 70 is generally symmetric about acenterline 71. Preferably, top piece 70 is generally planar andfabricated from a single piece of material, such as wood. Preferably,the overall outside shape is rectangular, with a height of G and alength of A.

Each top piece 70 includes interlocking features at the two edges thatare mirror images of each other. A slot 72 extends from the bottom ofthe top piece 70 vertically for a height of about one-half of theoverall height G of the top piece. Although what has been shown anddescribed are interlocking features that are mirror images of eachother, other embodiments are not self constrained and contemplateinterlocking features that are not mirror images of each other.

In some embodiments, the interlocking edge pattern includes a pair ofrecesses 76 (or notches) formed at the top and bottom of edge 73. Eachrecess 76 is adapted and configured to be received within acorresponding slot of a frame piece 40, as will be described later.

Slot 72 and edge 73 co-act to form a projection 74 therebetween. Aportion of this projection 74 proximate to recess 76 fits behind anadjacent frame piece 40, and further below the corresponding slot of theframe piece. In some embodiments, lateral edges 73 of top piece 70extend outwardly from slots 72 a sufficient amount to form externalcorners 75 when adjacent top pieces 70 are interlocked together. Thewidth of projection 74 can create external, outwardly facing corners 75that are both strong and aesthetically pleasing. It is to be noted thatin some embodiments top subassembly 27 includes two top panels 70 havingupwardly oriented slots 72, and two other top panels that includedownwardly extending slots (i.e., slots that extend from about midwaydown to the foot that contacts the floor.

FIG. 8 shows a shelf 80 adapted and configured for support of a lightfixture (not shown). Shelf 80 includes a recess 86 at each of its fourcorners. These recesses are adapted and configured to receive aprojection 74 from an inverted top piece 70. A support platform 89extends toward the middle of shelf 80 and provides a location from whichto securely attach a light source.

FIGS. 9 a, 9 b, 9 c, 9 d, and 9 e show various steps in the assembly ofa lamp 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention.Preferably, lamp 20 is comprised of various interlocking subassemblies.Each subassembly includes a plurality of separable components that arepreferably substantially identical to one another. Further, each ofthese subassemblies not only interlocks within itself, but furtherinterlocks into the subassemblies that are vertically adjacent to it.

As one example of this construction, a subassembly of small side panels23 comprises four substantially identical panels 30. FIGS. 9A and 9Bshow the beginning of construction. FIG. 9A shows a plurality of fourleg pieces 50 that have been interlocked into a closed planform havingthe shape of a square. Each pair of adjacent leg pieces 50 coact witheach other to create an outwardly facing corner 25 on each of the fourcorners. A frame subassembly 24 is placed on top of, and interlocks to,leg assembly 25. Frame assembly 24 includes four frame pieces 40 thatare interlocked at their edges, creating substantially the same closedplanform shape as that of leg assembly 25. The frame subassembly 24 ispositioned on top of, and interlocked to, leg subassembly 25. Referringto FIG. 9B, it can be seen that the edges 53 forming an outwardly facingcorner 55 having ends that are nested within respective slots 42 of theframe subassembly 24.

FIG. 9B further shows a first panel assembly 23″ positioned to interlockwith frame subassembly 24. It should be noted that the panels 30″ ofsubassembly 23″ appearing in FIGS. 9B, 9C, 9D, and 9E include fourvertically-oriented projections along each lateral edge of the panel30″. This differs from the frame piece 30 shown previously in FIG. 3,and is a variation of frame piece 30. In some embodiments, theseprojections provide additional stability by extending further along theinterior side of the slot 42 of the adjacent frame panel 40.

As best seen in FIGS. 9 c and 9 d, the panels 30″ are arranged insubassembly 23 in a rectangular arrangement. Panels on opposite sides ofthe rectangle are arranged with slots 32″ facing upward, and panels 30″on the other two opposing sides of the subassembly are arranged withslots 32″ facing downward. The downward facing slot of one panel 30″ isaligned and received within the upward facing slot of an adjacent panel30″. When assembled, the outside edges 33″ of adjacent panels projectoutwardly so as to form an interior corner 35″ (as best seen in FIGS. 10and 11). FIG. 9 e shows a completed panel subassembly 23″ havingsubstantially the same closed planform shape as that of subassemblies 24and 25. Note that all three of these planform shapes are preferablyclosed, such that the individual components of the subassembliesinterlockingly form a continuous boundary around an interior. However,the present invention also contemplates those embodiments in which theplanform shapes are not closed.

In addition, subassembly 23 is interlocked a frame subassembly 24. Arecess 36 near each edge 33 of a panel is received within acorresponding slot 42 of the vertically adjacent frame piece 40. When soreceived, projection 34 is located along the inner, back surface of thepanel 40, which is an assist in stabilizing the sliding attachment ofsubassemblies 23 and 24.

Each frame subassembly 24 comprises four individual frame panels 40. Ascan be seen best in FIG. 4, panel 40 is not a mirror image about avertical centerline 41. Instead, the jointing features on the right sideof each frame piece 40 are complementary in shape to the features on theleft side of the same frame piece. As can be seen on the right hand sideof FIG. 4, the outer edge 43 is arranged in an alternating pattern ofrecesses 46 and projections 44. The outer edge 43 on the other side ofpanel 40 also has an alternating pattern of projections 44 and recesses46, except in a pattern rotated 180 degrees about a horizontalcenterline of panel 40. The interlocking pattern on one side of frame 40is an inverted mirror image of the interlocking pattern on the otheredge of panel 40.

As can be seen best in FIG. 10 at the top, the left edge 43 of a firstframe piece 40 is received within the alternating projections andrecesses of the right edge of the adjacent frame piece 40. Further, itcan be seen that the edges 43 of adjacent corner pieces 40 whenconnected together extend within the interior corners 35 of thevertically adjacent panel subassemblies.

A subassembly 26 of large panels 60 is constructed in a manner similarto that described for small panel subassembly 23, and is interlockedwith vertically adjacent frame assemblies 24 likewise in a similarmanner. A subassembly 27 of top detail pieces 70 (as best seen in FIG.7) is constructed in a manner similar to that of subassembly 23. A legsubassembly 25 comprises a plurality of leg pieces 50 (as best seen inFIG. 5), and is interlocked together similar to that of panels 30 orsixty. Note that the interlocking of leg pieces 50 results in thecreation of outwardly facing corners 35 at the four intersections of thefour leg pieces within a leg subassembly 25.

Yet another method for interlocking frame pieces is shown in FIG. 11.Frame pieces 40′ are different from frame pieces 40 by having a singleprojection between two recesses on one edge, and a complementary-shapedsingle recess between two projections on the other edge. Yet otherembodiments of the present invention contemplate higher orderalternating arrangements of recesses and projections, including as oneexample an alternating pattern of three projections and three recesses.

FIG. 11 (along with FIGS. 1 a, 1 b, and 1 c) show a frame piece 40′(also shown in FIG. 4 b) that includes interlocking features differentthan the interlocking features of frame piece 40. Also seen in FIG. 4 b,frame piece 40′ preferably includes a single central projection 44.2′ ofa first panel 40′ that interlocks in the recess 46.1′ formed between apair of projections 44.1′ on an adjacent panel 40′.

The following Tables 1-6 provide exemplary dimensions of one embodimentof the present invention. It is appreciated that the present inventionis not so constrained, and contemplates components having differentdimensions.

TABLE 1 (small panel 30) (refer to FIG. 3) A B C D E F G H 14″ 0.25″0.25″ 0.625″ 5″ 0.25″ 10″ 0.25″

TABLE 2 (frame piece 40) (refer to FIG. 4b) A B C D E F G H 14″ 0.25″0.25″ 0.25″ 0.25″ 0.625″ 0.625″ 2.5″

TABLE 3 (leg 50) (refer to FIG. 5) A B C D E F G H 14″ 1.25″ 0.25″ 5″2.5″ 0.25″ 0.25″ 0.25″

TABLE 4 (large panel 60 (refer FIG. 6) A B C D E F G H 14″ 0.25″ 0.25″0.635″ 10″ 0.25″ 20″ 0.25″

TABLE 5 (top detail piece 70) (refer to FIG. 7) A B C D E F G H 14″0.25″ 0.25″ 0.25″ 1.25″ 0.25″ 2.5″ 0.25″

TABLE 6 (shelf 80) (refer to FIG. 8) A B C D E F 12.875″ 1″ 0.25″ 0.25″0.25″ 12.875 * The dimensions of the center cut out of the shelf may bedependent on the light fixture dimensions

The frame pieces 40 are used for both appearance and stability. Theseparts allow the tall structure to be collapsed into multiple pieces of asmall size. Each of the frame pieces 40 have substantially the sameshape and fit into one another via a simple finger joint. The corners ofthese parts have grooves to hold the panels 30 or 60, legs 50, or topdetail piece 70 in place. The grooves can also create a pleasingintersection (35, 55, 65, 75) for the sections. The grooves are placedso that when the frame is assembled, the other sections fit within themwith little clearance which enhances stability. The frame section of thelamp can be glued together during manufacture for ease of assembly bythe user. If not glued during construction, the finger joints of eachframe part 40 are preferably tight with little clearance. Once the lampis fully assembled, the joined panels hold the finger joints togetherwhile the frame sections hold the panels in place.

Each of the six sections is assembled in substantially the same way andthe frames are placed between them. Assembly of a section begins byputting the panels in groups by their cut-out pattern for quickassembly. Each piece has long slits on each side that are used tointerlock the panels. Once they are grouped, one of the panels withslots facing up is placed onto one of the frames. There are twoavailable grooves for each panel located on all four sides of the frame.This step is repeated with the other panel on the opposite side of theframe. The two panels will stand on their own once they have been setinto the grooves. One of the remaining panels is then put into place bysliding its downward facing slots into the slots of the two panelsalready in place. This step is repeated with the last panel, concludingthe section's assembly. Once each section has been assembled, the lampis put together by stacking each layer on top of one another, beginningwith the legs 50 and ending with the top detail 70. The lighting isadded by placing shelves 80 between two of the sections, or on top oftop detail 70. A fluorescent light fixture fits into grooves on each ofthe shelves in some embodiments and is suspended into the center,illuminating the structure.

Other possible uses of some embodiments of the present invention includeas temporary storage containers, temporary fencing, room divider, acloset, portable toilet hide-away or temporary housing.

FIGS. 12 and 13 show a frame piece 140 according to another embodimentof the present invention. Frame piece 140 is substantially the same asframe piece 40, except that adjacent frame panels 140 interconnect byway of interlocks that include dovetail joints. As best seen in FIG. 12,one side of a frame piece 140 includes a first interlocking projection144.1 that includes one side that is angled in a manner projecting outof the plane of frame piece 140. A second projection 144.2 is spacedapart from the first projection 144.1, and preferably includes angledsurfaces on both sides. Projections 144.1 and 144.2 co-act to form adovetailed recess 144.6 between them. A second partially dovetailedrecess 146.2 is created on the bottom side of projection 144.2. Theinterlocking features on the other side of frame piece 140 arepreferably inverted mirror images of the features shown in FIG. 12.However, the present invention also contemplates those embodiments inwhich the interlocking features of frame piece 40′ are adapted andconfigured to interlock in a dovetailed manner.

FIGS. 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 pertain to an embodiment of the presentinvention that includes additional interlocking between panels and framepieces. FIG. 14 shows a small side panel 230, although the differencesto be described could also apply to a large side panel 260. Side panel230 includes an edge 233 that extends laterally outward a sufficientdistance so as to form a projection 237 that is spaced apart by recess236 from projection 234. In furniture constructed with panels 230, theframe piece 240 is interlocked to the panel 230 within slot 236 andbetween projections 234 and 247. Therefore, projection 237 extendsvertically along the outer side and exterior of the interlocked framepiece 240, whereas projection 234 extends opposite and internally alongframe piece 240. Panel 230 therefore includes a first slot 232 forinterlocking with a corresponding slot of an adjacent panel, and furtherincludes a slot 236 that interlocks with a slot 242 of a frame piece240. This nesting of frame piece 240 within slot 236 provides additionalresistance to pulling out of a frame piece 240 from a furniture assembly220.

FIG. 15 shows a furniture structure 220 incorporating a plurality ofpanels 230 and 260. FIG. 16 shows a close-up of the interlocked junctionof a large panel subassembly 226 and a small panel subassembly 223capturing therebetween a frame subassembly 224. FIG. 17 shows apartially completed large panel subassembly 226 being assembled onto acompleted frame subassembly 224. FIG. 18 shows a completed framesubassembly 224.

It can be seen in these figures that the slot 236 of panels 230, and theslots 266 of panels 260, interlock with one of the top or bottom of acaptured frame assembly 224. As best seen in FIG. 16, a slot 266receives within it a portion of frame piece 240. In some embodiments,such as the one shown in FIG. 16, frame piece 240 includes a slot 242.The slots 242 and 266 are substantially aligned vertically whensubassemblies 226 and 224 are interlocked. However, yet otherembodiments of the present invention contemplate frame pieces 240 thatdo not include a slot 242, such that the top edge of frame piece 240 isreceived within slot 266. FIG. 16 further shows that edges 237 and 267have been extended vertically to reduce any lengthwise gaps between theexternally oriented corners 235 and 265.

As best seen in FIG. 17 the interlocking of one panel 260 with anadjacent panel 260 is achieved in some embodiments by vertically slidingone panel 260 over an inverted panel 260 (such as that shown in FIGS. 9c and 9 d). Prior to the interlocking of adjacent panels, the respectiveslots 262 are aligned.

The interlocking of a pair of adjacent frame pieces 240 includesaligning fingers of one panel with corresponding recesses of anotherpanel, and laterally sliding the frame pieces so as to interlock them(as seen in FIG. 16). Thus, frame pieces shown in some of theembodiments herein interlock laterally, whereas panel pieces of someembodiments shown herein interlock in a sliding fashion vertically.However, the present invention also contemplates those embodiments inwhich the interlocking of frame pieces is accomplished vertically, andfurther those embodiments in which panel pieces are interlockedlaterally.

FIG. 16 shows an additional sliding interface between a panel and acorresponding frame piece that further interferes with the removal of aframe piece of an assembled frame subassembly 224 after it isinterlocked with a corresponding panel 260 or 230 of a respective panelsubassembly 226 or 223. FIG. 16 shows that the fingers 267 and 237extend outwardly from the exterior face of an interlocked frame piece240. These outboard extensions of edge 263 or 233 form a projection 267or 237, respectively, that interferes with any attempt to laterallyremove a frame piece 240 from a furniture assembly 220.

Although what has been shown and described are panels 230 and 260 thateach include second slots 236 and 226, respectively, it is understoodthat yet other embodiments of the present invention contemplate havingonly one panel 260 or 230 that interferingly interlocks with a framepiece 240. Further, although what is shown and described are framepieces 240 that include slots 242 that align with slots 236 or 266, itis understood that in some embodiments slots 242 are not included, suchthat a portion of edge (either top or bottom) of a frame piece 240 iscaptured within a corresponding panel second slot 236 or 266.

While the inventions have been illustrated and described in detail inthe drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered asillustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood thatonly certain embodiments have been shown and described and that allchanges and modifications that come within the spirit of the inventionare desired to be protected.

1. A furniture assembly, comprising: a first plurality of separableframe pieces, each said piece of said first plurality beinginterlockable with each adjacent said piece of said first plurality; asecond plurality of separable frame pieces, each said piece of saidsecond plurality being interlockable with each adjacent said piece ofsaid second plurality; and a plurality of separable panels, each saidpanel being interlockable with each adjacent said panel, each said panelhaving a top and a bottom; wherein the bottom of each said panel isinterlockable with a corresponding different one of said first pluralityof frame pieces, and the top of each said panel is interlockable with acorresponding different one of said second plurality of frame pieces. 2.The assembly of claim 1 wherein each of said first pieces interlock witheach other without the use of fasteners, each of said second piecesinterlock with each other without the use of fasteners, and each of saidpanels interlock with each other without the use of fasteners.
 3. Theassembly of claim 1 wherein each piece of said first plurality has twoends, and each end of one said first piece interlocks with the end ofanother said first piece.
 4. The assembly of claim 3 wherein each pieceof said second plurality has two ends, and each end of one said secondpiece interlocks with the end of another said second piece.
 5. Theassembly of claim 4 wherein each said panel has two ends, and each endof one said panel interlocks with the end of another said panel.
 6. Theassembly of claim 1 wherein the number of pieces in said first pluralityis the same as the number of pieces in said second plurality, and is thesame as the numbers of panels.
 7. The assembly of claim 1 wherein eachof said first pieces, said second pieces, and said panels are generallyplanar.
 8. The assembly of claim 1 wherein each of said first pieces andeach of said second pieces have substantially the same shape.
 9. Theassembly of claim 1 wherein the interlocked first pieces, theinterlocked second pieces, and the interlocked panels each havesubstantially the same predetermined planform shape.
 10. The assembly ofclaim 9 wherein the shape is rectangular.
 11. The assembly of claim 9wherein the shape is triangular.
 12. The assembly of claim 1 whereinsaid interlocked first plurality of pieces support the weight of saidsecond plurality of pieces and the weight of said plurality of panels.13. The assembly of claim 1 which further comprises a source of lightlocated within the interlocked plurality of said panels, wherein saidassembly is a lamp.
 14. The assembly of claim 13 wherein each said panelis at least partly translucent.
 15. The assembly of claim 1 wherein theinterlocked plurality of frame pieces and panels comprise an article offurniture.
 16. A furniture assembly, comprising: a first plurality ofseparable frame pieces, each said piece having two ends, one end of eachsaid piece having a first frame interlocking pattern including at leastone laterally directed finger and at least one recess, and the other endof each said piece having a second pattern that is complementary inshape to the first interlocking pattern, each said piece of said firstplurality being interlockable with each adjacent said piece of saidfirst plurality, each said frame piece having a top defining at leastone slot and a bottom defining at least one slot; and a plurality ofseparable panels, each said panel having two ends, one end of each saidpanel having a third interlocking pattern, the third interlockingpattern of one said panel being interlockable with the thirdinterlocking pattern of the adjacent said panel; wherein the bottom slotof each said frame piece is interlockable with the third interlockingpattern of a corresponding said panel, and the top slot of each saidframe piece is interlockable with a third interlocking pattern of adifferent corresponding said panel.
 17. The assembly of claim 16 whereinthe second pattern is an inverted mirror image of the first pattern. 18.The assembly of claim 16 wherein each said panel interlocks with acorresponding one said frame piece at a location inboard of the one saidframe piece interlocks with another said frame piece.
 19. The assemblyof claim 16 wherein the interlocking of one said panel to another saidpanel forms an outwardly facing corner.
 20. The assembly of claim 16wherein each said panel has a height and the third interlocking patternincludes a third slot extending for about one half of the panel height.21. The assembly of claim 20 wherein the third slot of one said panelaligns with the third slot of an another said panel when the one saidpanel is interlocked with the other said panel.
 22. The assembly ofclaim 20 wherein each said panel includes an edge located outboard ofthe third slot, the edge being received within a top slot when one saidpanel is interlocked with one said frame piece.
 23. The assembly ofclaim 20 wherein each said frame has a height and the third interlockingpattern includes a fourth slot extending from less than half of theframe height, the fourth slot being adapted and configured to bereceived within said top slot.
 24. The assembly of claim 16 wherein eachfinger has a dovetail shape.
 25. The assembly of claim 16 wherein theinterlocked plurality of frame pieces and panels comprise an article offurniture.
 26. A furniture assembly, comprising: a first plurality ofseparable frame pieces, each said piece of said first plurality beinglaterally and slidingly interlockable with each adjacent said piece ofsaid first plurality to form a first closed shape, each said frame piecehaving a top; and a second plurality of separable panels, each saidpanel of said second plurality being vertically and slidinglyinterlockable with each adjacent said panel of said second plurality toform a second closed shape, each said panel having a bottom; wherein thebottom of each said second plurality of panels is vertically andinterferingly interlockable with the top of a corresponding differentone of said first plurality of frame pieces, and the first closed shapeand the second closed shape have substantially the same planform. 27.The assembly of claim 26 wherein each said panel includes a pair ofvertical slots, the vertical slots of each said panel being aligned withthe vertical slots of each adjacent interlocked said panel.
 28. Theassembly of claim 27 wherein the vertical slots are first slotsextending about one half of the height of said panel, each said panelfurther including at least one second slot located between a first slotand the lateral edge of said panel nearest to the one first slot. 29.The assembly of claim 28 wherein the top of each frame piece includes athird slot that aligns with the second slot of the interlocked saidpanel.